Bon Odori Festival is a Japanese Buddhist observance honouring the spirits of ancestors, who return once a year to visit their families. Traditional dance is performed to entertain the spirits of the ancestors. Last year, Bon Odori attracted around 50,000 locals and tourists.

Note:

In view of the influenza A(H1N1) pandemic, the Japanese consulate in Penang has advised those who are not feeling well to stay away from the Bon Odori Festival. Face masks will be sold at the event site with a help-desk manned by the Penang Health Department.